By Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News
Alliance for Change (AFC) Leader Nigel Hughes has strongly criticized the Guyana Police Force for what he describes as a deliberate failure to pursue justice in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Keon Fojune, who was shot in the eye during last month’s protest in Linden.
“There is body camera video footage,” Hughes said during a press conference. “I personally accompanied an eyewitness, Mr. Sulker, to the Wisroc Police Station. He gave a detailed statement identifying the officer responsible for Fojune’s death.”
Despite what Hughes says is clear evidence, including bodycam footage and eyewitness testimony, no charges have been laid against the officer alleged to have fired the fatal shot.
Hughes emphasized that although one officer has been charged in a separate protest-related killing, that is “not enough.” He reiterated the party’s demand for immediate charges in Fojune’s case.
“I was present when the statement was taken by the Office of Professional Responsibility. The evidence exists. The statement exists. The identity of the officer is known. So why hasn’t there been a charge?” Hughes questioned.
Fojune was shot during civil unrest in the mining town of Linden, which was triggered by the murder of another Lindener a day earlier. He later succumbed to his injuries, while another man who was also shot survived.
The AFC leader warned that continued inaction risks undermining public confidence in law enforcement institutions and widens the trust gap between the police and the people they are meant to serve.
Background:
- Date of Shooting: During the protest in Linden over a separate murder.
- Victim: Keon Fojune, 32, died after being shot in the eye.
- Allegation: Police officer identified by eyewitness and supported by bodycam footage.
- Status: No charges were filed against the alleged shooter.
